Parnate

What is Parnate?

Parnate, with the generic name tranylcypromine, is an oral medication indicated as a treatment for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have not responded well to other antidepressants. This improves one’s mood and feelings of well-being. This is not an initial drug of choice for depression because of potentially severe adverse effects, drug interactions, and dietary restrictions.

This monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) presumably works by potentiating monoamine neurotransmitter activities in the central nervous system or CNS. It irreversibly inhibits the enzyme monoamine oxidase. This is available in Parnate 10 mg tablet forms.

How to use Parnate

To start, read Parnate’s guide or information leaflet that comes with this product. Do not take this antidepressant if you have not yet fully understood the drug information, especially the warnings and precautions, in the guide provided. If you have questions on this treatment or need further medical advice, you can ask your physician or pharmacist.

Take this tablet orally. This is usually prescribed in divided doses and taken with or without food or as directed by your physician. Swallow the tablet without crushing or chewing and drink a glass of water after that.

Remember to take this oral drug regularly. To avoid skipping a dosage, create a dosing schedule. Your doctor may begin this treatment with a low starting dose and gradually increase your dose to reduce the risk of side effects. Do not alter your Parnate dosage because it depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Once your condition improves, your doctor will gradually decrease your dose. Do not stop taking this antidepressant abruptly to avoid this medication withdrawal. Some of the withdrawal symptoms are headache, weakness, restlessness, diarrhea, confusion, and hallucinations.

Parnate side effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Trouble sleeping
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Dry mouth

Mainly, the side effects brought about by this MAO inhibitor are mild and do not need medical attention. If the adverse reactions worsen, you will have to call your doctor or any healthcare professional. You also have to immediately report severe side effects, including:

• Fainting
• Seizures
• Shivering or tremors
• Swelling of lower extremities
• Vision changes
• Changes in sexual ability
• Signs of a liver problem (abdominal pain, persistent nausea, and vomiting, yellowish skin, dark urine)
• Hypertensive crisis (severe headache, fast and pounding heartbeat, chest pain, neck stiffness, severe vomiting, cold and clammy skin)
• Serotonin toxicity (severe vomiting or diarrhea, loss of coordination, hallucinations, palpitations, unexplained fever, muscle twitching, agitation/restlessness)

This is not an exhaustive list of Parnate side effects.

Precautions when using Parnate

Before using Parnate, you must fully disclose your medical history to your physician, especially pheochromocytoma, cardiovascular diseases, heart problems, liver problems, kidney disease, nervous system disorders, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, high blood pressure, and mental or mood disorders. Certain medical conditions may have an impact on how your body will respond to Parnate. You also have to tell your doctor about all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products you are taking, for they might have drug interactions with this antidepressant.

Continually lookout for severe allergic reactions, especially as you initiate this medication. Do not take this antidepressant if you have a known allergy to tranylcypromine or any inactive ingredients each tablet may contain. You must seek emergency medical management once you notice signs of hypersensitivity, such as hives, skin rashes, severe dizziness, swelling of the face, and breathing trouble.

Patients taking Parnate for depression are at risk of suicide. Contact your local suicide hotline once you observe the warning signs of suicide, including hopelessness, talking about dying, sudden change in appearance, changes in sleeping patterns, and giving away important belonging.

Parnate may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, drowsiness, and visual changes. You must practice safety precautions when doing activities that require clear vision and alertness, such as using machinery and driving. Also, do not drink alcohol because it could aggravate the side effects.

Hypertensive crisis and serotonin toxicity must be regarded as a medical emergency. Seek medical help immediately if you suspect any of these. You also have to continually monitor your blood sugar levels because this antidepressant may cause hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.

For pregnant or breastfeeding moms, consult your doctor about this treatment. This may potentially cause danger to unborn babies and breastfed children. Take this antidepressant only when extremely necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the long-term consequences of this medication?

Some long-term adverse effects of this antidepressant are irritability, muscle twitching, restlessness, and fatigue.

What is the difference between Parnate and Nardil?

On Parnate vs Nardil, both effective MAOI and not prescribed as an initial treatment for depression.

Can I take this medication for social anxiety?

There are still no definitive studies on Parnate & social anxiety. This is not among the indications of this medication.

Is there a recommended diet when taking this medication?

Parnate diet includes limiting alcoholic drinks and avoiding smoked or pickled meat, dried fruits, overly ripe fruits, bananas, avocados, raspberries, and soybean products.

How much does this medication cost?

You may check the pricing of this product by clicking here.